2015 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS Review

The Vulcan S is not your average cruiser. It stands apart, with its Parallel Twin engine, unique frame and suspension layout, and its very non-traditional looks. Designed for independent-minded riders, it does not require the rider to conform to any heard-mentality fashion or lifestyle.

Unlike any other cruiser, the Vulcan® S is geared up to fit a wide range of riders. Never taking away from its stylish features, this bike takes comfort, adjustability and confidence-inspiring power to the next level.

Kawasaki introduces a modern take on cruiser style and comfort, with a customizable fit and smooth ride that promises to be fun

The 2015 Vulcan® S is a unique motorcycle that could only be a Kawasaki. It combines the low silhouette of a Vulcan cruiser and mixes it with Kawasaki sportbike-derived power and handling, as well as a custom fit concept, designed to comfortably fit a wide range of riders. The result is a package that offers comfort, confidence and adjustability, which combine to provide a very special riding experience.

The 2015 Vulcan S ABS is the only motorcycle in its class with standard adjustable, forward-positioned footpegs, allowing a range of riders to get comfortable. It also has a low seat height, as well as optional seats and handlebar for the same reason. Furthermore, it boasts the lowest weight of any motorcycle in the category, and we all know what that means – easier to maneuver, quicker acceleration, easier to stop, quicker to turn and smooth suspension action.

Another stand out element of the 2015 Vulcan S ABS is its 649cc liquid-cooled parallel twin engine. Derived from the Kawasaki Ninja® 650 and tuned for more low- and mid-range torque, the engine is very smooth when pulling away from a traffic light and responsive when the rider wants to accelerate. This makes it suitable for novice riders, while its top-end power and nimble handling will keep more experienced riders entertained all day.

COMFORT & CONFIDENCE

There are many aspects that can influence the comfort and confidence of a motorcycle rider, and one of the most obvious is the fit. So, first and foremost, the 2015 Vulcan S ABS has been designed to accommodate a wide range of riders.

Being a cruiser-style motorcycle, the seat has a low height and is conveniently tapered at the front for greater comfort. This means most riders will be able to place their feet firmly on the ground, keeping them stable when stopped, and helping to increase confidence in stop-and-go city traffic. What’s more, there is significant hip support at the rear of the seat to increase the level of comfort. And there are tailored fit options with different seats and handlebar to ensure a comfortable fit for a range of riders.

The 2015 Vulcan S ABS has a slim chassis thanks to the narrow parallel twin engine, which has it engine cylinders positioned further forward than a conventional V-twin engine. The parallel twin configuration also enabled engineers to route the exhaust under the engine and away from the rider’s legs. A further benefit of the slim chassis is an increased lean angle when cornering.

The 2015 Vulcan S ABS suspension has been designed to absorb the bumps and give the rider feedback.

TAILORED FIT

Kawasaki Genuine Accessories has several options to tailor the motorcycle to fit individual riders. The optional Ergo-Fit™ reduced reach seat, for example, moves the hip support further forward, making it easier for riders with a shorter inseam to reach the adjustable footpegs and handlebar. There is also a second optional Ergo-Fit extended reach seat with firmer foam that moves the hip support further back to accommodate taller riders.

For the rider who wants to take a friend along, the Vulcan S ABS is even more customizable thanks to the optional Kawasaki Genuine Accessories passenger seat, backrest and passenger footpeg setup that will accommodate a second person.

The rider’s forward-positioned footpegs are mounted in a relaxed position that is typical of the cruiser riding experience. As an industry first for this class of motorcycle, these footpegs have three positions to accommodate a variety of different-sized riders. With an adjustment range of 1” forward and 1” backwards from the mid mounting points, the footpegs will be able to suit shorter or taller riders for maximum confidence and comfort. Please note that Kawasaki Genuine Accessory Ergo-Fit shift rods are required when the footpegs are repositioned.

It doesn’t stop there. Kawasaki Genuine Accessories also offers an Ergo-Fit reduced reach handlebar to help riders with shorter arms to comfortably reach the bar, which is brought 1” closer to the rider.

When combined with the low seat height, adjustable footpegs and range of accessory options, the 2015 Vulcan S ABS ABS has been designed to instill confidence and increase the overall riding enjoyment, making it a good choice for novice and experienced riders alike.

CONTROLS

Continuing with the tailored fit theme of the 2015 Vulcan S ABS, both the clutch and brake levers are adjustable for easy reach to suit a range of hand sizes. The rider will also appreciate the Positive Neutral Finder, which makes it easier to find neutral when stopped.

The handlebar has a wide diameter for a positive feel and is rubber-mounted to reduce vibration and increase overall comfort.

The instrumentation consists of a compact analog tachometer with a multifunction dual-window. The digital display features speed, fuel level, clock, odometer, dual trip meters, range, average and instant fuel economy as well as an Economical Riding Indicator to show when the rider is optimizing fuel economy.

ENGINE

The liquid-cooled 649cc parallel twin engine is another important aspect of the 2015 Vulcan S ABS. It brings many distinct advantages, which includes its Kawasaki sportbike DNA that enables superb flexibility at all engine speeds, a healthy power band and legendary dependability. It is also considerably smoother than the traditional V-twin engines used in most cruisers.

For the 2015 Vulcan S ABS, the engine has been engineered specifically to make it cruiser-friendly and to inspire confidence in new riders, while still being fun and agile for experienced riders. There has been specific tuning to the camshaft profiles, intake funnel length, throttle body spacer and air intake to provide exceptional low- and mid-range power delivery. The aim was to create an engine with user-friendly characteristics that ensure the motorcycle is easy to ride, with a smooth power delivery that is responsive to rider inputs at low speed. It also has enough grunt at higher RPM to keep it entertaining, being considerably more powerful than most cruisers, without becoming intimidating.

Thanks to its use of Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) to carefully meter the fuel used by the 649cc engine, the 2015 Vulcan S ABS will sip fuel, providing more miles and smiles between fuel stops while also being kinder to your wallet. The motorcycle boasts a 3.7-gallon fuel tank to give plenty of range between stops.

The exhaust system has been routed under the engine to keep the motorcycle narrow for easy reach to the ground. It uses dual-wall pipe with a large diameter that is designed to look good and sound even better, having a distinctive growl that separates it from the typical cruiser.

The six-speed transmission drives an O-ring chain to efficiently transfer engine power to the road. It also has a Kawasaki Positive Neutral Finder, that allows you to simply upshift from first when stopped to select neutral every time.

CHASSIS

With its cruiser appeal, the 2015 Vulcan S ABS is long and low, with a wheelbase designed for increased stability at typical highway cruising speeds. And Kawasaki brought its sportbike expertise to create the slim, lightweight chassis that has a low center of gravity and centralized mass for even greater stability as well as nimble handling. These benefits will be felt as soon as you maneuver it out of the garage or in a tight space, but will be most appreciated on a Sunday morning ride.

The new perimeter frame adds to the unique styling of the 2015 Vulcan S ABS and incorporates a rear subframe with slim backbone that eliminates seat rails. By keeping the motorcycle narrow, it helps the rider’s feet reach the ground more easily. There is also a “D” section steel swingarm that provides both style and strength.

The 31-degree rake and 7.1” trail of the front fork contribute to the light handling and easy control of the motorcycle, with the fork prioritized towards comfort and control. Similarly, the laydown, offset rear shock uses a back-link to provide a longer stroke for increased comfort. This setup also creates more space for the exhaust muffler.

The suspension was designed to absorb bumps and provide plenty of feedback. In fact, it has 3.15” of rear wheel travel, which is more than most of its competitors and this contributes to the greater comfort.

The rear shock also includes a seven-position, cam-style preload adjuster. It can be easily adjusted to suit the rider or when carrying a passenger and luggage, such as when the Kawasaki Genuine Accessories passenger components and luggage rack are fitted. This means the 2105 Vulcan S ABS rider will enjoy confidence thanks to its suspension technology that is neither rough nor fatiguing, as it can sometimes be on motorcycles with short-travel suspension.

The brakes comprise a single 300mm rotor and twin-piston caliper up front, with a 250mm rotor mated to a single-piston rear caliper. The Vulcan S ABS ABS model also adds anti-lock braking (ABS) technology, which adds to the rider confidence in the motorcycle’s stopping ability because it assists braking under certain conditions.

STYLING

As with any cruiser, style is very important, and the 2015 Vulcan S ABS doesn’t disappoint. It incorporates elements such as the teardrop-shaped, 3.7-gallon fuel tank, inverted triangular headlight and black mirrors to match the black frame and exhaust muffler.

The distinctive front headlight design works in conjunction with a bright and compact LED tail light. The rear light is incorporated into the rear fender, which is supported by the separate rear subframe.

The 2015 Vulcan S ABS will be available in three distinctive colors, including Candy Lime Green as well as Pearl Crystal White and Flat Ebony.

ACCESSORIES

Kawasaki Genuine Accessories has developed a host of options to maximize the ownership experience of the 2015 Vulcan S ABS. Owners can customize the fit, comfort and style of their motorcycle to meet their needs. Some of the standout items include Ergo-Fit™ seats and the Ergo-Fit reduced reach handlebar to tailor-fit the rider fit. Additionally, KQR™ (Kawasaki Quick Release) large and medium windshields, saddlebags and passenger backrest options allow for tool-less installation and removal of these classic cruiser accessories.

Other notable accessories include a DC power outlet, gear position indicator, LED light bar and helmet lock.

Kawasaki Genuine Accessories will have more than 25 parts available for purchase at your Kawasaki dealerships in early 2015.

TIME TO RIDE

With its unique blend of cruiser style and sportbike performance, as well as its customizable fit that instills greater confidence in the rider, there is only one thing left to do: Ride!

With its affordable purchase price, low running costs and easy parking, the 2015 Kawasaki Vulcan S ABS is the perfect motorcycle for any rider to get across the city to meet friends. And while it has plenty of practical uses, the 2015 Vulcan S ABS is fun, above anything else. It allows you to drop everything at a moment’s notice and take-off with a smile. So whether you’re a new rider looking to buy a first motorcycle, or an experienced rider looking to rekindle the reason you started riding in the first place, the 2015 Vulcan S ABS is the perfect reason to visit your local Kawasaki dealer.

ABOUT KAWASAKI

Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (KHI) started full-scale production of motorcycles over a half century ago. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed based on technical know-how garnered from the development and production of aircraft engines, and Kawasaki’s entry into the motorcycle industry was driven by the company’s constant effort to develop new technologies. Numerous new Kawasaki models introduced over the years have helped shape the market, and in the process have created enduring legends based on their unique engineering, power, design and riding pleasure. In the future, Kawasaki’s commitment to maintaining and furthering these strengths will surely give birth to new legends.

Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) markets and distributes Kawasaki motorcycles, ATVs, side x sides, and Jet Ski® watercraft through a network of almost 1,200 independent retailers, with close to an additional 7,400 retailers specializing in general purpose engines. KMC and its affiliates employ nearly 3,100 people in the United States, with approximately 300 of them located at KMC’s Irvine, California headquarters.

* The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price does not include freight, pre-delivery inspection or applicable taxes. The final price is at the discretion of the dealer. Prices and Specifications are subject to change without prior notice. The amount indicated as “Your price” may include an optional instant Mega Cash credit that is deducted from the manufacturer’s suggested retail price before taxes. This promotion is time limited and certain conditions will apply. See your dealer for complete details. Offer not available on financed purchases and cannot be combined with any other special offers. The final price is at the discretion of the dealer. Prices and Specifications are subject to change without prior notice.

** Includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90% of capacity) and tool kit (if supplied)

‡ Power / Torque figures measured at the crankshaft.

The specifications mentioned here apply to and have been achieved by production models under standard operating conditions. We intend only to give a fair description of the vehicle and its performance capabilities but these specifications may not apply to every machine supplied for sale. Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. reserves the right to alter specifications without prior notice. Equipment illustrated and specifications may vary to meet individual markets. Available colours may vary by market.